
The Vélo Francette: from Mayenne to Laval, along the water and through heritage
La Green Way from Mayenne to Laval, on the route of the Vélo Francette (V43), offers a 36 km course Peaceful and bucolic, perfect for a getaway with family, as a couple, or with friends. This stage connects Mayenne à Laval by following the towpath which runs alongside the river, revealing a remarkable natural and architectural heritage in the heart of the Mayenne valley.
The departure takes place at Mayenne, a city of history and culture. Before getting on your bike, take the time to visit its Carolingian castle, one of the oldest in France, now transformed into art and history museumMemory enthusiasts will also appreciate a detour through the Deportation Memorial, as well as religious buildings such as the Chapel of the Calvary Women or Notre-Dame BasilicaAn ideal cultural immersion to start the tour.
As soon as you leave the city, the walking and cycling path takes over the Left Bank from Mayenne. This towpath It faithfully follows the peaceful course of the river and offers a smooth, safe, and accessible path for all levels. The tranquility of the area, the quality of the surface, and the rural landscapes make it an ideal route for families with children. The surroundings are dotted with lock houses, bourgeois residences and river stops which add charm and rhythm to the walk.
Throughout the course, interpretation panels They allow visitors to discover local history, the biodiversity of the banks of the Mayenne, and the role of waterways in regional development. Several rest areas Picnic spots dot the route, perfect for a break by the water.
The greenway is also interconnected with other cycle routes of the department, such as the Ambrières-les-Vallées > La Chapelle-Anthenaise greenway, accessible near the Huilerie business park. This complementarity offers cyclists numerous options to extend their cycling adventure over several days.
Arrival at Laval, city of art and history, is a reward in itself. His medieval castle, which houses the Museum of Naïve ArtIt proudly overlooks the Mayenne River. Those interested in industrial heritage will not want to miss a visit. The City of Milk – Dairy Center, tracing the dairy history of the region. Laval also offers river cruises, boat trips using a wash house and rentals to discover the river in a different way.
In sum, the Vélo Francette between Mayenne and Laval is a emblematic stage gentle cycle touring in France. Easy, shaded, lined with remarkable sites and well-designed infrastructure, it perfectly combines nature, culture and the pleasure of ridingA great way to (re)discover the Mayenne, with complete peace of mind.